| Back to search results » | Back to search page » |
|
St Kilian's Catholic Church & Organ
Location161 McCrae Street,, BENDIGO VIC 3550 - Property No B3508
File NumberB3508LevelState |
|
Statement of Significance
Church:
An impressive wooden Church with long nave, ailses and clerestory, designed in the gothic style by W C Vahland and built in 1888 by Z Button. It replaced an earlier stone church of 1857 by George & Schneider. This is Victoria's largest wooden church and notable on account of its distinctive interior and unique German Organ built by R A Randeb rock in 1871.
Classified: 18/09/1975
Revised: 03/08/1998
Organ:
The largest 19th century German pipe organ in Australia, this instrument was built in 1871 by R A Randebrock of Paderborn. It was commissioned by the pioneer priest Dean Henry Bachhause who had emigrated from Paderborn in 1846. The organ was moved from the former stone church to the present building in 1888 by George Fincham and subsequently fell into serious disrepair. A comprehensive restor- ation programme was completed in 1982-83 and the organ placed in the church at floor level; previously it had been sited on a gallery. It is a large organ of conservative 19th century design. The distinctive console is placed on the left side of the organ and retains its original drawknobs and fittings, although the manuals and pedal board are contemporary replacements for the originals, which are in storage. The oak casework, in the Gothic sty le, is elaborately carved and high-lighted with colour. This is one of Australia's most notable organs because of its rarity.
The German origin and character of the instrument make it quite different from other English style pipe organs which were built in, or exported to, Australia.
Classified: 30/05/1983.
Group
Religion
Category
Church